Natural Killer (NK) Cells Test
Description:
Natural Killer (NK) Cells Test
This test measures the levels of Natural Killer Cells in the blood. Natural Killer Cells (NK Cells) are a type of lymphocyte, or white blood cell, which play an important role in the body's immune system. NK cells help to kill tumor cells or cells infected with a virus. NK cells are identified and differentiated from other types of immune cells by certain antigens called CD proteins. NK cells are CD56 positive and CD3 negative.
This test includes measurements for:
- Percentage CD3-CD56+ NK
- Absolute CD3-CD56+ NK
- Complete Blood COunt (CBC)
Measuring Natural Killer Cells can help to evaluate the function of a person's immune system. It can also be useful in diagnosing or monitoring treatment to conditions such as leukemia, viral hepatitis, and HIV.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-4 business days.